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| Overseeding
Overseeding, or adding new seed to existing lawns, improves bare spots, thickens turf and helps crowd out weeds. Use an overseeder for best results.
Overseeding Tips:
1. Overseed your lawn as needed to strengthen the turf.
2. Seeds should be carefully chosen based on your area and on your existing lawn type (check with your local county extension office for guidance). Try to select seed that has at least an 80% germination rate and contains less that one percent weed seeds.
Existing Lawns: The best time to sow the seed is right after you've dethatched and aerated your lawn. Always be sure to rake and remove thatch and weeds before seeding. If you have aerated, rake the removed cores, then use an overseeder to spread the grass seeds. In an existing lawn application, the overseeder helps the seed get through the grass and remaining thatch down to the remaining dirt. Only set the blades to slice 1/8th of an inch into the dirt as anything deeper and the seed will not have the strength to come back up. Cover the lawn with a starter fertilizer if you wish.
Bare Dirt Lawns: A brand new lawn that is just dirt or a lawn that has been tilled to start over, using an overseeder helps the seed get into the dirt. Remember, only set the blades to slice 1/8th of an inch into the dirt as anything deeper and the seed will not have the strength to come back up. Plan to cover the seeds with a thin layer of straw to help keep the remaining seeds from blowing away or from being eaten by birds. Alternatively, we have found that using a lawn roller instead of straw will pack the seed in where birds rarely become a problem.
Are all grass seeds the same?
No. Many "bargain" seeds contain common, low-quality grasses that may not adapt well to your lawn. Grass from poor-quality seeds tends to be susceptible to disease. Don't try to save money when purchasing grass seed! Instead, buy the best quality seed you can afford. Whenever possible, purchase seed that contains grass types with specific (varietal) names.
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